Journey to the West: The Significance of the Number Four

I. Introduction

“Journey to the West” is one of the most celebrated novels in Chinese literature, attributed to the Ming dynasty writer Wu Cheng’en. This epic tale combines mythology, adventure, and moral teachings, following the pilgrimage of the monk Xuánzàng as he travels to India to retrieve sacred Buddhist texts. Its cultural impact extends beyond literature, influencing art, theatre, and popular media in China and beyond.

In Chinese mythology, numbers often carry profound symbolic meanings, with various digits representing different concepts and beliefs. Among these, the number four holds particular significance, influencing various aspects of the narrative in “Journey to the West.” This article delves into the importance of the number four within this classic tale, exploring its cultural implications and the roles it plays throughout the story.

II. The Number Four in Chinese Culture

In Chinese numerology, the number four is associated with the concept of death, as the word for “four” (四, sì) sounds similar to the word for “death” (死, sǐ). This association has led to a cultural taboo surrounding the number, causing it to be viewed unfavorably in many contexts.

Despite its negative connotation, the number four also represents stability and balance, often seen in various aspects of Chinese philosophy and cosmology. To better understand the significance of four, it is helpful to compare it with other notable numbers:

• One (1): Unity and the beginning of all things.
• Two (2): Duality and balance, often representing yin and yang.
• Three (3): Harmony, as seen in the concept of heaven, earth, and humanity.

While four may bring forth fear due to its association with death, it also embodies the strength found in stability and the cyclical nature of life.

III. The Four Main Characters of Journey to the West

The narrative of “Journey to the West” centers around four main characters, each embodying unique attributes that contribute to the overarching theme of the pilgrimage:

• Xuánzàng: The monk representing spiritual aspiration and purity. His character symbolizes the quest for enlightenment and the importance of knowledge.
• Sun Wukong: The Monkey King, embodying rebellion, intelligence, and strength. His journey represents self-discovery and the struggle against chaos.
• Zhu Bajie: The pig demon who signifies indulgence and earthly desires. Through his character, the story explores themes of temptation and redemption.
• Sha Wujing: The river spirit representing loyalty and discipline. He serves as a stabilizing force within the group, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.

These four characters not only represent distinct aspects of human nature but also illustrate the philosophical teachings embedded in the story, reflecting the number four’s significance in their interactions and development throughout the journey.

IV. The Four Stages of the Pilgrimage

The pilgrimage in “Journey to the West” can be divided into four key stages or challenges, each reflecting the themes of growth, learning, and enlightenment:

1. Departure from China: The beginning of the journey, where Xuánzàng sets out on his quest.
2. Confrontation with Demons: The trials faced by the group as they encounter various demons and obstacles, testing their resolve.
3. Self-Discovery: Characters learn from their experiences, leading to personal growth and transformation.
4. Retrieval of Scriptures: The ultimate goal, representing the attainment of knowledge and enlightenment.

Each stage builds upon the last, emphasizing the importance of overcoming obstacles and the growth that comes from facing challenges together.

V. The Four Directions and Their Symbolism

In Chinese cosmology, the four cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west) hold significant meaning, often associated with different elements, colors, and deities. Each direction also correlates with various aspects of the journey in “Journey to the West”:

• East: Associated with spring and renewal, mirroring the beginning of Xuánzàng’s journey.
• South: Representing warmth and growth, reflecting the characters’ development.
• West: Symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment, aligning with the ultimate goal of retrieving the scriptures.
• North: Often linked with winter and introspection, representing the trials faced along the way.

The interplay between these directions and the characters’ journey enriches the narrative, illustrating how geography and symbolism intertwine in Chinese storytelling.

VI. The Four Elements and Natural Forces

The four classical elements—earth, water, fire, and air—are integral to the narrative structure of “Journey to the West.” Each character can be seen as embodying one of these elements:

• Xuánzàng (Earth): Represents stability and grounding in the pursuit of knowledge.
• Sun Wukong (Fire): Embodies energy, transformation, and the spark of rebellion.
• Zhu Bajie (Water): Symbolizes adaptability and the flow of desires.
• Sha Wujing (Air): Represents clarity, communication, and the unseen forces that guide the journey.

These elements affect the characters’ journey and development, reinforcing the narrative’s thematic depth and the significance of the number four.

VII. The Philosophical Implications of the Number Four

Throughout “Journey to the West,” philosophical teachings are intricately woven into the narrative. The number four connects to various concepts such as balance, harmony, and completion:

• Balance: The interplay between the characters reflects the need for balance in life.
• Harmony: The group’s dynamics illustrate the importance of cooperation and understanding.
• Completion: The pilgrimage itself symbolizes the journey toward achieving one’s goals and the culmination of experiences.

These teachings have had a lasting impact on Chinese literature and thought, emphasizing the significance of numbers in conveying complex ideas and cultural values.

VIII. Conclusion

In “Journey to the West,” the number four emerges as a powerful symbol, intricately woven into the narrative’s structure and character development. From the four main characters to the four stages of the pilgrimage, the significance of this number resonates throughout the tale.

The enduring legacy of “Journey to the West” in Chinese culture continues to inspire reflections on the interplay of numerology and mythology in storytelling, illustrating how deeply rooted beliefs shape narratives and cultural expressions.